Nurses leadership in research and policy in Nigeria: A myth or reality?

Aim This study evaluates nurses' leadership in research and policy formulation in southern Nigeria. Background In Africa and particularly in low- and middle-income countries, expected health information from nurse's leaders is sometimes not available, thereby hindering the attainment of sustainable health. Methods This qualitative study used 12 high-ranking nurses leader from primary, secondary and tertiary health care systems in Cross River State, Nigeria. In-depth interview and focus group discussion were used to generate and validate collected data. Results There was marginal leadership in research and policy formulation. The hindering factors were mainly individual and institutional barriers. Conclusion Nurses effective leadership in research and policy have not yet been actualized. Suggested remedies include mentoring of the mentee in research, provision of designated grants for nursing research, acceptance of nurses as policy formulators rather than implementers among others. The small sample size informs the need for further study throughout the region. Implications for Nursing Management Nurses have the capability to exercise influence directly or indirectly on health care goals. Dereliction in research and policy formulation could hinder the attainment of desired health care reforms due to absence of innovation in nursing practice and management.